1522-S AMS HSC S3033.1

SHB 1522 - S COMM AMD

By Committee on Human Services & Corrections

    Strike everything after the enacting clause and insert the following:

    "NEW SECTION. Sec. 1.  A new section is added to chapter 26.33 RCW to read as follows:

    An adoption shall not be delayed or denied on the basis of the race, color, or national origin of the adoptive parent or the child involved.  However, when the department or an agency considers whether a placement option is in a child's best interests, the department or agency may consider the cultural, ethnic, or racial background of the child and the capacity of prospective adoptive parents to meet the needs of a child of this background.  This provision shall not apply to or affect the application of the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978, 25 U.S.C. Sec. 1901 et seq.

    In an attempt to encourage birth parents to consider using the adoption system when appropriate, the department or child-placing agency, absent good cause, shall follow the wishes of the parents regarding the placement of the child.  Preferences such as family constellation, ethnicity, and religion shall be given consideration when matching children to adoptive homes."

SHB 1522 - S COMM AMD

By Committee on Human Services & Corrections

    On page 1, line 1 of the title, after "adoption;" strike the remainder of the title and insert "and adding a new section to chapter 26.33 RCW."

                            --- END ---